1879 Three-Cent Nickel & Shield Nickel Value Guide
1879 nickel values: Three-Cent from $100-$4,000, Shield from $500-$15,000. Key dates with low mintages. Proof and business strike values included.
The 1879 United States nickel coinage consists of two distinct denominations, both with notably low mintages making them highly collectible.
1879 Shield Nickel (5¢)
- Circulated:$500 – $2,500
- Uncirculated:$3,750 – $10,000
- Top specimens:$15,000+ (MS-67)
1879 Three-Cent Nickel (3¢)
- Circulated:$100 – $300
- Uncirculated:$425 – $1,850
- Top specimens:$4,000+ (MS-67)
Both denominations resumed business strike production in 1879 after a two-year hiatus, resulting in extremely low mintages that make them highly sought after by collectors today.
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1879 Nickel Coinage: A Year of Exceptional Rarity
The year 1879 holds special significance in United States numismatics for its nickel coinage. After suspending business strike production in 1877 and 1878, the U.S. Mint resumed striking both the Three-Cent Nickel and Shield Nickel in 1879—but in extraordinarily small quantities. The Shield Nickel's mintage of just 25,900 makes it the second-rarest date in its series and a key date for collectors. The Three-Cent Nickel, with a mintage of 38,000, is a significant semi-key date. In stark contrast, Proof versions of both denominations were produced in much larger quantities (3,200 each), making them far more accessible to collectors today.
Both coins share the same challenging 75% copper, 25% nickel composition, which frequently caused production difficulties including weak strikes and rapid die wear. Values for business strikes escalate dramatically in higher grades due to low survival rates, while Proof values are stratified by cameo contrast designations.
1879 Three-Cent Nickel (left) and Shield Nickel (right), showing both denominations produced this year
How to Identify Your 1879 Nickel
The 1879 United States nickel coinage comprises two distinct denominations, each with its own unique design characteristics.
Three-Cent Nickel Design
The Three-Cent Nickel features Liberty facing left on the obverse, wearing a coronet inscribed with "LIBERTY." The date 1879 appears below the portrait. Check reference materials for mint mark location. The reverse displays a large Roman numeral "III" within a wreath, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircling the design. Key diagnostic features include the upper strands of Liberty's hair, which often show weakness due to the hard alloy's resistance to striking.
Key identification features: Liberty's hair details and date location on 1879 Three-Cent Nickel
Shield Nickel Design
The Shield Nickel displays a prominent shield design on the obverse, with "IN GOD WE TRUST" on a banner across the shield. The date 1879 appears below. Check reference materials for mint mark location. The reverse features a large numeral "5" within a wreath of corn and cotton, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "CENTS" surrounding the design. The stars on the reverse are critical diagnostic points, as they often exhibit weakness in striking.
Key identification features: Shield design and star details on 1879 Shield Nickel
Distinguishing Business Strikes from Proofs
Both denominations were struck in business strike and Proof versions. Proofs feature sharply defined details with mirrored fields and may exhibit die polish lines from the die preparation process—these appear as fine, parallel lines and are not defects. Business strikes have a more matte appearance, though 1879 Shield Nickels often display reflective, "prooflike" surfaces due to minimal die use. This characteristic creates attribution challenges, as business strikes can resemble mishandled Proofs. Third-party certification is essential for accurate attribution of high-grade 1879 Shield Nickels.
1879 Nickel Value Guide: Current Market Prices
Values for 1879 nickel coinage vary dramatically based on denomination, strike type, grade, and for Proofs, the degree of cameo contrast. The intrinsic melt value is negligible (approximately $0.06 for Shield Nickels, $0.02 for Three-Cent Nickels), with all market value derived from numismatic factors.
1879 Three-Cent Nickel (Business Strike)
With only 38,000 struck and an estimated 750 surviving in all conditions, the 1879 Three-Cent Nickel is a semi-key date. Approximately 200 examples exist in grades of MS-65 or higher. A disproportionately high number of Mint State examples survived because contemporary collectors recognized the low production numbers and saved original rolls before the coins entered circulation.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $100 |
| VF-20 | $200 |
| EF-40 | $250 |
| AU-50 | $300 |
| MS-60 | $425 |
| MS-63 | $550 |
| MS-65 | $1,250 |
| MS-66 | $1,850 |
| MS-67 | $4,000 |
Recent auction: A PCGS MS-67 sold for $1,800-$4,700(Heritage Auctions, 2014-2024).
Grade progression: G-4 showing heavy wear vs MS-65 with full mint luster
1879 Three-Cent Nickel (Proof)
With 3,200 Proofs struck and an estimated 2,700 surviving (including 1,200 in PR-65 or better), the Proof version is far more accessible than its business strike counterpart. Values are heavily influenced by cameo contrast, with Deep Cameo examples commanding exceptional premiums.
| Grade | Standard | Cameo | Deep Cameo |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-63 | $425 | — | — |
| PR-65 | $575 | — | — |
| PR-66 | $725 | $940 | — |
| PR-67 | $1,275 | $1,092 | — |
| PR-68 | $5,000 | $12,000+ | $14,100 |
Record: A PCGS PR-67+ DCAM sold for $14,100(Heritage Auctions, April 2013).
1879 Shield Nickel (Business Strike)
The 1879 Shield Nickel is a key date with a mintage of just 25,900—the second-lowest in the series. An estimated 350 examples survive in any condition, with only 75 in grades of MS-65 or higher. Many business strikes exhibit reflective, prooflike surfaces due to minimal die use, creating attribution challenges that make third-party certification essential.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $500 |
| VF-20 | $1,000 |
| EF-40 | $1,850 |
| AU-50 | $2,500 |
| MS-62 | $3,750 |
| MS-64 | $6,000 |
| MS-65 | $7,500 |
| MS-66 | $10,000 |
| MS-67 | $15,000 |
Record: The PCGS auction record is $12,000(Stack's Bowers, November 2020).
1879 Shield Nickel (Proof)
With 3,200 Proofs struck, these are far more plentiful than business strikes and represent the most accessible way to acquire an 1879-dated Shield Nickel. Values are highly dependent on cameo contrast.
| Grade | Standard | Cameo |
|---|---|---|
| PR-63 | $550 | — |
| PR-64 | $750 | — |
| PR-65 | $1,100 | — |
| PR-66 | $1,500 | $1,431-$2,304 |
| PR-67 | $3,000 | $5,280 |
| PR-68 | $7,000 | — |
Recent sale: An NGC PF-68 sold for $4,080(Stack's Bowers, November 2021).
Grading 1879 Nickel Coinage
Grading 1879 nickel coinage requires attention to strike quality and wear patterns. The hard 75% copper, 25% nickel alloy resisted striking pressure, resulting in many coins with weak details even in uncirculated condition.
Strike Quality vs. Wear
Distinguishing between weak strike and actual circulation wear is critical. On the Three-Cent Nickel, check the upper strands of Liberty's hair—weakness here is common even on uncirculated examples. On the Shield Nickel, examine the stars on the reverse, which frequently show incomplete definition due to striking issues rather than wear.
Strike quality comparison: weak strike (left) vs. strong strike (right) showing star definition differences
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58)
In lower circulated grades (G-4 through VG-10), the date and major design elements remain visible but details are worn smooth. As you progress through Fine and Very Fine grades, more design details emerge. In Extremely Fine (EF-40 through EF-45), most design elements are sharp with only slight wear on the highest points. About Uncirculated (AU-50 through AU-58) examples show only trace wear on the highest design points, with much of the original mint luster remaining.
Uncirculated Grades (MS-60 through MS-70)
Mint State coins show no trace of wear, though contact marks from bag handling are common and determine the numeric grade. MS-60 through MS-62 examples have numerous contact marks and may lack eye appeal. MS-63 through MS-65 coins have fewer marks and better overall appearance. MS-66 and higher examples are rare, especially for the Shield Nickel, with exceptional surfaces and strong eye appeal.
Grade progression: VF-20 (moderate wear), AU-50 (trace wear), MS-65 (no wear, minimal marks)
Proof Grades (PR-60 through PR-70)
Proof coins are graded similarly to business strikes but with different expectations. Surface quality is paramount—even minor hairlines or contact marks significantly impact the grade. Die polish lines from the die preparation process are not considered defects and are common on 1870s Proofs. These appear as fine, parallel lines and should not be confused with cleaning hairlines, which are random and crisscrossing.
Proof cameo designations: Standard (left), Cameo (center), Deep Cameo (right) showing increasing contrast
Prooflike Business Strikes
The 1879 Shield Nickel's low mintage meant dies retained much of their initial polish, resulting in many business strikes with reflective, "prooflike" surfaces. This creates attribution challenges, as these coins can resemble circulated Proofs. Third-party certification from PCGS or NGC is essential for accurate attribution, as misidentifying a circulated Proof as a business strike (or vice versa) can result in significant valuation errors.
Reflective prooflike surface characteristic of 1879 business strike Shield Nickels
Die Varieties Worth Collecting
The 1879 nickel coinage features several die varieties, though only one has achieved major status in the numismatic market: the 1879/8 Shield Nickel overdate.
1879/8 Shield Nickel Overdate
This is the most significant and widely collected variety for 1879 nickel coinage. It is a major "Red Book" variety known almost exclusively on Proof strikes.
🔍 Attribution
The variety is identified by clear remnants of an underlying '8' visible within the upper and lower loops of the final '9' in the date. Magnification is typically required to see the details clearly. While some have argued it is a repunched date, extensive research by John W. Dannreuther has affirmed its status as a true overdate, recognized as such by both PCGS and NGC.
1879/8 overdate variety showing remnants of underlying '8' within the '9'
The 1879/8 presents a numismatic paradox. While only two business strike examples are known, making them legendary rarities, the Proof version is surprisingly common. Some estimates suggest this overdate may account for as much as half to two-thirds of the entire surviving population of 1879 Proof Shield Nickels.
Despite being relatively common among Proofs, the 1879/8 consistently trades at a premium over the normal 1879 date. This is a clear instance where a coin's status as a major, cataloged variety creates collector demand that elevates its value beyond what its absolute rarity would suggest.
| Grade | 1879/8 Overdate Value |
|---|---|
| PR-64 | $552-$995 |
| PR-65 | $690-$1,300 |
| PR-66 | $1,320-$1,850 |
| PR-67 | $2,520-$3,500 |
| PR-67 CAM | $6,600 |
| PR-67 CAM Record | $15,275 |
| PR-68 | $6,000-$13,000 |
Recent auction: A PCGS PR-67 CAM sold for $6,600(Stack's Bowers, August 2019). The record is $15,275(Heritage, February 2014).
Minor Varieties
Several minor die varieties exist for both denominations. The 1879 Three-Cent Nickel Proof has one obverse die showing minor repunching on the numeral '7' and more noticeable doubling on the '9'. However, as typical for minor varieties on Proof coinage, this garners little collector interest and carries no significant value premium.
PCGS recognizes several minor die varieties using the attribution system developed by John W. Dannreuther (JD), including 1879 3CN JD-1, JD-2, and JD-3, as well as several for the Shield Nickel. These attributions are primarily of interest to specialists and do not add value in the general market.
Mint Errors on 1879 Nickel Coinage
The hard 75% copper, 25% nickel alloy of 1879 nickel coinage made these coins susceptible to various manufacturing errors. It's important to distinguish between die varieties (characteristics repeated on every coin struck by a die) and mint errors (unique anomalies on individual coins).
Planchet Errors
These occur before the coin is struck and include clipped planchets (where the blank is punched out overlapping a previous hole), lamination flaws (where metal flakes or peels from the surface), and split planchets. A clipped planchet showing 5-10% of the planchet missing typically adds $75-$200 in circulated grades and $150-$400 in uncirculated grades.
Striking Errors
Off-center strikes are the most dramatic and valuable striking errors. A coin struck 10-15% off-center with the date still visible ranges from $250-$700 in circulated condition and $500-$1,500+ uncirculated. Coins struck more than 40% off-center command $800-$2,500+ (circulated) to $2,000-$5,000+ (uncirculated).
Broadstrikes (struck outside the retaining collar) and struck-through errors (where a foreign object comes between the die and planchet) are also seen. Brockages—an incuse mirror image from a previously struck coin sticking to the die—are rare and valuable, ranging from $1,000-$5,000+ (circulated) to $3,000-$10,000+ (uncirculated).
Die Errors
Die cracks and cuds (a type of die break involving the edge) add $30-$100 in circulated grades and $75-$250 uncirculated. Die clashes, where the obverse and reverse dies strike each other and transfer parts of their designs, are particularly common throughout the Three-Cent Nickel series.
Common error types: off-center strike (left), clipped planchet (center), die crack (right)
💡 Value Enhancement
Errors on key dates like the 1879 Shield Nickel are especially valuable. The same error that adds $100 to a common date might add $500+ to a key date coin. Minor laminations add $20-$75 (circulated) to $50-$150 (uncirculated).
Authentication and Counterfeit Detection
The high value of the 1879 Shield Nickel makes it a prime target for counterfeiters. NGC has documented fakes of this issue, and collectors should exercise vigilance when considering any high-grade example or any example that seems unusually affordable for the grade.
Counterfeit 1879 Shield Nickels typically exhibit several telltale characteristics. The date often appears "messy and wobbly," lacking the sharp, clear definition of a genuine coin. Look carefully for unnatural spikes or lines around the date and other design elements—these are signs of a hand-engraved or altered fake die. Letters and stars on counterfeits may appear shallow, rounded, and seem to blend into the coin's surface, unlike the crisp relief of an authentic strike.
Authentication guide: Genuine (left) vs. counterfeit (right) showing diagnostic differences
Sophisticated fakes may have incorrect metallic composition. One example analyzed by NGC contained 26% zinc, which is not present in the genuine 75% copper, 25% nickel alloy. However, counterfeiters can often replicate the correct weight (5.00 grams for Shield Nickels, 1.94 grams for Three-Cent Nickels), so weight alone is not a definitive test of authenticity.
The most common issue affecting 19th-century coins is improper cleaning. Telltale signs include a grid of fine, parallel scratches from wiping with an abrasive cloth, unnaturally bright or dull surfaces that lack original mint luster, and residue in the crevices of the design. A cleaned coin will receive a "Details" grade from certification services (such as "EF Details–Cleaned") and is worth only a fraction of its problem-free counterpart. For example, a Proof 1879 Shield Nickel graded "AU Details--Cleaned" by PCGS sold for only $456—comparable to a problem-free PR-63 or PR-64, representing a substantial penalty.
Given these challenges, third-party certification from PCGS or NGC is highly recommended for any 1879 nickel coinage in grades above Fine, and is essential for high-grade examples or rare varieties like the 1879/8 overdate.
Coin Care and Long-Term Preservation
Proper storage is essential to protect the value and condition of 1879 nickel coinage. Store coins in a cool, dry location with stable temperature and humidity to prevent corrosion and toning. Use inert, archival-quality materials for storage. Safe options include Mylar flips, acrylic capsules (such as those used by PCGS and NGC), and albums with acid-free pages.
Avoid soft, flexible vinyl flips, as they often contain PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which can leach out over time and cause green, sticky residue that permanently damages a coin's surface. Also avoid storing coins in contact with materials like wool, velvet, or certain types of wood cabinets that can off-gas harmful chemicals.
When handling coins, always hold them by their edges between your thumb and forefinger. This prevents oils and acids from your skin from contacting the coin's surfaces, which can lead to fingerprints and corrosion over time. The most important rule of coin preservation is to never clean your coins. Any abrasive cleaning, polishing, or rubbing creates microscopic scratches that permanently destroy the original mint surface and drastically reduce numismatic value. The damage is irreversible and cannot be repaired.
Recent Auction Results
Recent auction activity demonstrates strong collector demand for high-grade 1879 nickel coinage. Notable results include a PCGS MS-67 Three-Cent Nickel that sold for $4,700 at Heritage Auctions in 2024, and a PCGS MS-66 example that realized $1,320 in 2022. For Shield Nickels, the PCGS auction record stands at $12,000 for an MS-67 example sold by Stack's Bowers in November 2020. Several PCGS MS-66 Shield Nickels have sold in the $4,113-$7,800 range between 2017 and 2020.
Proof examples show particularly wide price spreads based on cameo contrast. A PCGS PR-67+ DCAM Three-Cent Nickel sold for $14,100 at Heritage Auctions in April 2013—nearly three times the value of a standard proof in the same grade. For the 1879/8 overdate variety, a PCGS PR-67 CAM realized $6,600 at Stack's Bowers in August 2019, with the auction record reaching $15,275 at Heritage in February 2014.
Market values remain strong for both denominations across all grades, with particular strength in the MS-65 and higher range for business strikes. Problem coins—including those with cleaning, scratches, or other damage—sell at significant discounts to their problem-free counterparts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are 1879 nickels worth?
Values depend on the denomination and grade. The 1879 Shield Nickel ranges from $500 in G-4 to $15,000+ in MS-67, while the 1879 Three-Cent Nickel ranges from $100 in G-4 to $4,000+ in MS-67. Proof examples of both denominations are more affordable, typically starting around $425-$550 in lower proof grades.
Why are 1879 nickels so valuable?
Both the Shield Nickel (mintage 25,900) and Three-Cent Nickel (mintage 38,000) have extremely low mintages for their year. The U.S. Mint had suspended business strike production in 1877-1878, making 1879 the first circulation strikes in three years. The Shield Nickel is the second-rarest date in its series and a key date, while the Three-Cent Nickel is a significant semi-key date.
How do I identify an 1879/8 overdate Shield Nickel?
Look for remnants of an underlying '8' visible within the upper and lower loops of the final '9' in the date. Magnification is typically required to see the diagnostic clearly. This variety exists almost exclusively on Proof strikes and may account for half to two-thirds of all surviving 1879 Proof Shield Nickels. Despite being relatively common among Proofs, it trades at a premium over normal date examples.
Do 1879 nickels have mint marks?
No. Both the Shield Nickel and Three-Cent Nickel were struck only at the Philadelphia Mint in 1879, and Philadelphia did not use mint marks during this era. All 1879 examples are from Philadelphia regardless of whether they carry a "P" designation.
Should I get my 1879 nickel professionally graded?
Yes, especially for high-grade examples or any Shield Nickel above Fine condition. The 1879 Shield Nickel is a known counterfeit target, and many business strikes have prooflike surfaces that can be confused with circulated Proofs. Third-party certification from PCGS or NGC provides authentication and accurate attribution, which is essential for establishing value. For the 1879/8 overdate variety, certification is strongly recommended.
How should I store my 1879 nickel to preserve its value?
Use inert, archival-quality holders such as Mylar flips or PCGS/NGC capsules. Avoid PVC-containing flips, which can damage coins over time. Store in a cool, dry location with stable temperature and humidity. Always handle coins by their edges, and never clean them—cleaning permanently destroys original surfaces and drastically reduces value.
What causes weak strikes on 1879 nickels?
The 75% copper, 25% nickel alloy used for both denominations is notoriously hard and resistant to striking pressure. This led to frequent weak strikes and rapid die wear. On Three-Cent Nickels, check the upper strands of Liberty's hair. On Shield Nickels, examine the stars on the reverse. Weak strike is a characteristic of many genuine 1879 nickels, not necessarily a sign of wear or poor preservation.
Are Proof 1879 nickels more valuable than business strikes?
Not necessarily. While 3,200 Proofs of each denomination were struck compared to much lower business strike mintages, the Proof survival rate is much higher. In lower grades, business strikes command higher premiums due to their rarity. However, top-grade Deep Cameo Proofs can exceed business strike values—a PR-67+ DCAM Three-Cent Nickel sold for $14,100, while an MS-67 business strike typically brings around $4,000.
What is the melt value of 1879 nickels?
The intrinsic metal value is negligible. A 1879 Shield Nickel has about $0.06 in copper and nickel content, while a Three-Cent Nickel contains approximately $0.02 worth of metal. This represents less than 0.1% of the coins' numismatic value—all market worth is driven by rarity, historical significance, and collector demand.
Price Guide Methodology
Values presented in this guide are compiled from multiple authoritative sources, including the PCGS Price Guide (October 2025), NGC Price Guide (various dates 2020-2023), and verified auction records from Heritage Auctions and Stack's Bowers Galleries. Population data reflects PCGS and NGC certified populations as of late 2025. Survival estimates are based on research by these certification services and published numismatic scholarship, including work by John W. Dannreuther on die varieties.
The coin market is dynamic and prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, and overall market conditions. Values presented represent typical retail asking prices for problem-free, accurately graded examples. Actual prices realized can vary based on individual coin characteristics, eye appeal, and market timing. Coins with problems (cleaning, damage, etc.) will sell for significantly less than the values shown. This guide is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as investment advice.
